CHOIR POLICY

The Sterling Singers' principal mission is to testify of Jesus Christ through music. We have a special and unique spirit among our members. In order to maintain both unity and the highest quality of musical expression, the following policy guidelines have been adopted.

• Please check and carefully review emails every week, even when we are on break. Make sure we have a current email address on file for you.

• Always check your rehearsal attendance. If the roster does not find you, please make sure you check your attendance following rehearsal in the foyer or cultural hall.

• VETERAN SINGERS, please welcome new singers and make their choir experience enjoyable.

• There are NO reserved seats. Please sit in your sections, shorter singers in front, and taller at the back; sopranos - west side rehearsal chapel; tenors - west center; basses/baritones - east center; altos - east side, AND follow the instructions of our SECTION LEADERS!

• Please refrain from unnecessary talking during rehearsals! Because of the limited rehearsal time, it is important to utilize every moment for constructive learning of the music.

• There are too many singers for the conductor to accept questions from individual choir members, unless an entire section is struggling with notes. It is very disruptive to interrupt the momentum of the conductor and the choir. Musical interpretations are the sole domain of the conductor!

• Please refrain from criticizing fellow singers. This is not your responsibility. If there is a serious problem, email the managing director at sterlingsingers@q.com.

• In order not to delay Kelly's departure after rehearsals, he requests that you please communicate through the email address of the Sterling Singers.

• ALWAYS have a pencil in hand to make notations in your music! Rehearsal notes are critical, so the conductor does not have to repeat instructions. Please make appropriate notes in each piece at every practice.

• Remember to sing long vowels and distinct consonants. Elke can teach you the German alphabet for better singing (if needed), or sing as if you are a “Brit.”

• Prerequisite for our singers is that they be “exceptional and experienced choral singers.” This means, everyone is expected to learn the music at home, and work on problem areas to master each number. Do NOT rely solely on rehearsal time. Rehearsal CDs or MP3s will be made available whenever possible.

• All First Sopranos must audition for the conductor to identify and determine appropriate placement.

• Second Sopranos are requested not to strain for notes beyond their upper range limit; instead lip-synch notes above a high “G.”

• 90% REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE is required to perform in any concert and/or program.

Thank you for your cooperation and compliance!

CLICK HERE for a printable version of the Choir Policy